Stafford man sentenced to 10 years in prison for fentanyl distribution
Stafford, Virginia – A Stafford man, Dwaine Tyrone Jones Jr., was sentenced to a decade behind bars earlier this week for his involvement in a large-scale drug distribution operation, particularly dealing with fentanyl. This sentencing reflects the ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis gripping many parts of the United States.
The case against Jones unfolded after a detailed investigation by the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, which initially intercepted a parcel on October 2, 2023. This parcel contained 16,245 counterfeit oxycodone pills, which were identified not only by their blue color and “M30” stamp but also because they contained the potent synthetic opioid, fentanyl.
Further investigations led to a critical operation on October 17, 2023, when law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Jones’ residence. Jones, 27, shared this home with his girlfriend and her parents. The search yielded a shocking discovery of an additional 20,240 blue M30 pills laced with fentanyl, alongside 40.5 grams of cocaine, a scale for measuring drug quantities, and $47,770 in cash. Authorities also found a half-pound of marijuana and a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun, adding layers of severity to the case.
The substantial quantity of fentanyl pills recovered, totaling 2,137.04 grams, underscores the significant scale of Jones’ operation and the potential harm it could have inflicted on the community. Fentanyl is known for its extreme potency and has been a significant factor in the increase in overdose deaths across the nation.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia L. Norman.
